S.C.O.P.E

Utilising S.C.O.P.E to guide decision making is a great way, both personally and when teaching, to ensure success and safety for everyone when riding all types of terrain and snow. It is particularly useful in off-trail situations and should be used as a tool when teaching any introduction to off-piste terrain.

Safety

Assess and highlight the snow conditions and hazards that are present. Consider the difficulty of terrain including aspect, pitch and undulations, and any abrupt change in snow condition. Common hazards include rocks, trees, cliffs, tussock, wind slabs and cornices, and cracks in the snow pack.

Capabilities

Careful consideration of students’ capabilities and confidence in similar environments will ensure they feel great about the terrain they’re entering. Ride a similar run as the one they want to attempt in a more controlled environment while identifying the movements that will help them be successful. Keep feedback simple, concise and specific to the situation they’re about to attempt.

Options

Before dropping into the terrain identify potential entry and exit points. Look for routes to avoid the identified hazards. Line choice and decision making should be discussed before dropping in. Give the students options if it becomes too difficult, reminding them that it’s ok to sideslip or traverse to manage the terrain. Encourage safe stopping points and spacing of students to avoid collisions.

Preparation

Ensure the riders are sufficiently warmed up and feel ready to ride, both physically and mentally. Check understanding of the plan, their riding focus and any concerns. Equipment should also be considered when preparing, checking bindings, appropriate safety equipment, boards have been waxed etc.

Execution

Once all the previous checks have been made it’s time to drop in. Make the first turn their best turn, emphasise flow between turns and above all that they enjoy themselves.